For Long Term Value…

Nothing helps your ROI like sheet steel.

For the duration of a structure’s service life, sheet steel offers superior value and long-term benefits versus other building materials.

These are the results of a study conducted by Ducker Research Company for the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA). The purpose of the study was to compare three commonly used types of low slope roofing systems (2:12 roof slope or less) from the standpoints of service life, maintenance cost and overall life cycle costs.

The study looked at the following three different roofing types:

1. Metal (mostly unpainted coated steel roofs)

2. Built-up roofs (BUR) – modified bitumen, asphalt

3. Single ply membrane (EPDM/PVC/TPO)

Service life, durability and life cycle cost are considered the most important criteria in the selection of roofing type, according to building owners. While the majority of buildings had experienced roof leaks, none of the steel roofs had leaked as a result of material failure. By comparison, 30% of the Built Up Roofs and 56% of the Single Ply roofs experienced leaks resulting from material failure. Furthermore, owners of buildings having steel roofs reported having little or no regular maintenance performed on their roofs. The leaks reported on steel roofing were a result of contractor installation problems. Regardless of roofing type, failure to achieve a quality installation is the primary reason for roof failure.

The Ducker Research Company study showed that the life cycle cost of a metal roof is significantly less than BUR and Single Ply roofing. Steel roofing had the lowest maintenance costs and had, on average, a 17+ year greater lifespan than the other two roofing systems. The study also concluded that building owners believe that service life and life cycle costs are the most important factors in roofing material selection and overall, metal roofing is by far the best option based on its lowest life cycle cost. Add to this the fact that steel roofing is 100% recyclable, has industry leading recycled content and easily qualifies for LEED Canada certification.